Jubeir says Yemen war was imposed on Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Adel Al Jubeir says that the war in Yemen was imposed on his country. In this picture, Mr Al Jubeir is delivering a speech at the Munich Security Conference on February 18, 2018. Thomas Kienzle / AFP

Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia Adel Al Jubeir said on Wednesday that the conflict in Yemen was not a war of the kingdom’s choice.

Mr Al Jubeir – whose country leads an Arab coalition fighting Iran-backed rebels in Yemen on behalf of the internationally recognised government – said during a press conference with his British counterpart, Boris Johnson, in London that the war “was imposed on us”.

He added that the Houthi rebels have since the war broke out in 2014 stolen more than $4 billion (Dh14.7bn) from Yemeni banks.

“They are working on smuggling and controlling telecommunications companies in order to finance their war,” he said, referring to the Houthis who have repeatedly launched ballistic missiles at Saudi Arabia, which has intercepted them.

“I don’t think the people of this country actually fully understand yet what is happening in Saudi Arabia and the changes that are happening and the fact that women are now going to be able to drive cars,” he said.

“This is a big thing that’s happening. It’s a very important thing. That’s why we think it’s so important to try to work with Saudi Arabia as they advance this Vision 2030.

“I believe this occasion marks the beginning of a new era in our friendship because the very breadth and ambition of Vision of 2030 allows our relationship forwards to include co-operation in education, health, culture, sport, technology, you name it.”

Mr Al Jubeir said the kingdom’s objective was to diversify from oil, open up other areas for investment, whether its recreation, mining or entertainment.

“Focus on technology, empower youth, empower women. Turn our country into a normal country so that people can lead normal lives and realise their hopes, dreams and ambitions,” he said.